OpenAI rolls out age prediction on ChatGPT
In a significant development, OpenAI has launched an age prediction system on its popular chatbot platform, ChatGPT. The new system is designed to assess whether an account likely belongs to someone under the age of 18, with the primary goal of providing added safeguards to limit exposure to sensitive or harmful content. This move is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing user safety and ensuring that the platform is used responsibly, particularly by minors.
The age prediction model employed by OpenAI analyses a combination of behavioural and account-level signals, including the duration of an account’s existence and usage patterns over time. By examining these factors, the model can make an informed prediction about the age of the account holder. While the system is not foolproof, it represents a significant improvement over traditional methods of age verification, which often rely on self-reported information or simple checkbox verification.
The introduction of age prediction on ChatGPT is a response to growing concerns about the potential risks associated with AI-powered chatbots, particularly when used by minors. As these platforms become increasingly sophisticated and ubiquitous, there is a pressing need to ensure that they are used in a way that is safe and responsible. By implementing age prediction, OpenAI is taking a proactive approach to addressing these concerns and promoting a safer user experience for all.
So, how does the age prediction system work? According to OpenAI, the model uses a range of signals to make predictions about an account holder’s age. These signals include:
- Account duration: The length of time an account has been active is a key factor in determining the age of the account holder. Accounts that have been active for a shorter period are more likely to belong to minors.
- Usage patterns: The way an account is used can provide valuable insights into the age of the account holder. For example, accounts that exhibit patterns of usage that are typical of minors, such as frequent use during school hours or a focus on gaming-related content, may be flagged as potentially belonging to a minor.
- Behavioural signals: The model also examines behavioural signals, such as the types of topics or themes that an account holder engages with, to make predictions about their age.
By analysing these signals, the age prediction model can make a prediction about the age of the account holder. If an account is predicted to belong to a minor, it will receive added safeguards to limit exposure to sensitive or harmful content. These safeguards may include restrictions on access to certain types of content, such as explicit or mature themes, or limitations on interactions with other users.
The introduction of age prediction on ChatGPT is a significant development in the field of AI-powered chatbots. As these platforms continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, it is essential that they are designed with safety and responsibility in mind. By implementing age prediction and providing added safeguards for minors, OpenAI is demonstrating its commitment to creating a safe and responsible user experience for all.
The use of age prediction on ChatGPT also raises important questions about the balance between safety and privacy. While the goal of protecting minors from harmful content is laudable, there is a risk that the use of age prediction could infringe on the privacy rights of users. OpenAI must ensure that its age prediction system is transparent, fair, and respectful of user privacy.
In conclusion, the launch of age prediction on ChatGPT is a significant step towards enhancing user safety and promoting responsible use of AI-powered chatbots. By analysing a combination of behavioural and account-level signals, the age prediction model can make informed predictions about the age of account holders and provide added safeguards to limit exposure to sensitive or harmful content. As the use of chatbots continues to grow and evolve, it is essential that developers prioritize safety and responsibility, and the introduction of age prediction on ChatGPT is an important step in this direction.
News source: https://www.reuters.com/technology/openai-rolls-out-age-prediction-chatgpt-2026-01-20/
About the Author
